Cerdulatinib for treating hematological cancers

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein are methods and uses of cerdulatinib for treating diseases or conditions, including hematological cancers, and combinations of cerdulatinib for treating such diseases or conditions.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/780,414, filed May 31, 2018, which is a U.S. national stage application of International Application PCT/US2016/064824, filed Dec. 2, 2016, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Applications 62/263,582, filed on Dec. 4, 2015, 62/342,727, filed on May 27, 2016, 62/342,755, filed on May 27, 2016, and 62/371,145, filed on Aug. 4, 2016, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to cerdulatinib for treating diseases or conditions, including hematological cancers, and combinations of cerdulatinib for treating such diseases or conditions.

BACKGROUND

Tumors of the hematopoietic and lymphoid tissues or haematopoietic and lymphoid malignancies are tumors that affect the blood, bone marrow, lymph, and lymphatic system. As those elements are all intimately connected through both the circulatory system and the immune system, a disease affecting one will often affect the others as well, making myeloproliferation and lymphoproliferation (and thus the leukemias and the lymphomas) closely related and often overlapping problems.

Hematological malignancies may derive from either of the two major blood cell lineages: myeloid and lymphoid cell lines. The myeloid cell line normally produces granulocytes, erythrocytes, thrombocytes, macrophages and mast cells; the lymphoid cell line produces B, T, NK and plasma cells. Lymphomas, lymphocytic leukemias, and myeloma are from the lymphoid line, while acute and chronic myelogenous leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes and myeloproliferative diseases are myeloid in origin.

B-cell lymphomas are types of lymphoma affecting B cells. Lymphomas are blood cancers in the lymph nodes. B-cell lymphomas include both Hodgkin's lymphomas and most non-Hodgkin lymphomas.

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is a type of blood cancer. It is the most common of the indolent (slow-growing) non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, and the second-most-common form of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas overall. It is defined as a lymphoma of follicle center B-cells (centrocytes and centroblasts), which has at least a partially follicular pattern.

B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL), also known as chronic lymphoid leukemia (CLL), is the most common type of leukemia (a type of cancer of the white blood cells) in adults. CLL affects B cell lymphocytes, which originate in the bone marrow, develop in the lymph nodes, and normally fight infection by producing antibodies. CLL is a stage of small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), a type of B-cell lymphoma, which presents primarily in the lymph nodes. CLL and SLL are considered the same underlying disease, just with different appearances.

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL or DLBL) is a cancer of B cells, a type of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma encompasses a biologically and clinically diverse set of diseases, many of which cannot be separated from one another by well-defined and widely accepted criteria.

B cell receptor (BCR) mediated signalling is required for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) pathogenesis and drugs which target kinases within the BCR signalling complex are revolutionising the treatment of this disease.

Some chemotherapeutic agents employed in CLL therapy include ibrutinib (Imbruvica®), which targets BTK, and idelalisib (Zydelig®), which targets PI3Kδ. However these compounds suppress the disease and are not typically curative. Additionally, CLL patients may develop resistance to these chemotherapeutic agents either via mutations in BTK or downstream signalling proteins, or other mechanisms. An additional resistance mechanism to chemotherapy in CLL may be via IL-4 mediated JAK/STAT signalling, which may protect against cytotoxic agents. Accordingly, there is a need for new therapies for hematological malignancies.

SUMMARY

It is now discovered that cerdulatinib is effective in treating relapsed and/or refractory hematological cancers such as CLL and indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (“NHL”). When cerdulatinib is used pre-clinically in combination with another chemotherapeutical agent, such as a BCL-2 inhibitor or a BTK inhibitor, the effectiveness is even greater. These combinations, as the experimental data demonstrate, exhibit synergistic results.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a composition is provided that comprises cerdulatinib and a chemotherapeutic agent, such as a BCL-2 inhibitor, a BTK inhibitor, a P13Kδ inhibitor, an anti-CD20 antibody, ABT-199 (venetoclax), rituximab (Rituxan®, Mabthera®, Zytux®), a platinum-based drug, an antimetabolite, ibrutinib (Imbruvica®), idelalisib (Zydelig®), or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the composition is used to treat a hematological cancer selected from Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL), Follicular Lymphoma (FL), transformed Follicular Lymphoma (tFL), Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL), Marginal Zone Lymphoma, Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT), and Waldenstrom Macroglobluinemia (WM).

In some embodiments, the composition comprises, in addition to cerdulatinib, ibrutinib (Imbruvica®) as the chemotherapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the composition comprises, in addition to cerdulatinib, ABT-199 (venetoclax) as the chemotherapeutic agent.

Some embodiments provide for a composition comprising cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and venetoclax, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient. Some embodiments provide for a composition comprising cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and venetoclax, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient, wherein cerdulatinib and venetoclax are present in a mole ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:5.

Some embodiments provide for a composition comprising cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and ibrutinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient.

Provided herein are methods of treating a hematologic cancer in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and an effective amount of venetoclax, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

Also provided herein are methods of treating a hematologic cancer in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and an effective amount of venetoclax, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein cerdulatinib and venetoclax are administered in a mole ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:5.

Some embodiments provide for a method of treating a hematologic cancer in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and an effective amount of ibrutinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

Also provided herein are methods of treating a hematologic cancer in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the patient has a CD79B mutation, has a PLCγ2 mutation, or does not have a IKB deletion, wherein the effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is about 25 mg to about 120 mg administered daily.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 provides a bar graph that depicts inhibition of Edu incorporation by FACS analysis in a variety of DLBCL cell lines at 2 μM of cerdulatinib at 72 hours.

FIG. 2 provides a bar graph that depicts inhibition of precedent induction of caspase 3 cleavage by FACS analysis in a variety of DLBCL cell lines at 2 μM of cerdulatinib at 72 hours.

FIG. 3 shows the results of the effects of ibrutinib and cerdulatinib in WT BTK-transfected TMD8 cells. 250 nM of ibrutinib or cerdulatinib was added into the culture and live cell number was counted daily for 7 days. The results shown are the mean±standard error (“SE”) of 4 replicate experiments. Open circle=dimethylsulfoxide (“DMSO”); closed circle=ibrutinib (“IBR”); triangle=cerdulatinib (“Cerd”).

FIG. 4 shows the effects of ibrutinib and cerdulatinib in BTK^(C481S)-transfected TMD8 cells. 250 nM of ibrutinib or cerdulatinib was added into the culture and live cell number was counted daily for 7 days. The results shown are the mean±SE of 4 replicate experiments. Open circle=dimethylsulfoxide (“DMSO”); closed circle=ibrutinib (“IBR”); triangle=cerdulatinib (“Cerd”).

FIG. 5 shows that CLL cells with unmutated (“UM”) IGHV (N=33) are more sensitive to cerdulatinib than IGHV mutated (“M”) CLL (N=27). Data was analyzed with Student T test. mean±SE of IC₅₀ are plotted. P=0.0395.

FIG. 6 shows cerdulatinib sensitivity of CLL cells with different cytogenetic abnormalities. Case numbers for each subgroup are indicated. Data was analyzed by ANOVA test, mean±SE of IC₅₀ are plotted.*, P<0.05.

FIG. 7 shows CLL cells were incubated with IL-4 (10 ng/ml) and CD40L (300 ng/ml) for 6 hours then treated with cerdulatinib and/or ABT-199 as indicated for a further 24 hours. Viability was assessed using (A) PI/Annexin V staining by flow cytometry. A representative plot is shown or (B) summarized (n=9) showing % of control (PI/Annexin V negative cells). (C) Synergistic interactions between cerdulatinib and ABT-199 were evaluated as indicated. Points below the diagonal line represent synergistic interactions, above the line are additive.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Malignant B cells receive survival signals that originate from a tumor itself as well as from non-tumor cells residing in the microenvironment. The B cell antigen receptor (BCR) and cytokine receptors contribute to survival.

Subsets of B cell lymphomas demonstrate a reliance on BCR and/or cytokine JAK/STAT signaling for survival. SYK is positioned upstream of BTK, PI3Kδ, and PLCγ2 on the BCR signaling pathway, making it a potential therapeutic target. Additional survival support appears to be mediated by cytokine-induced JAK/STAT pathways, which can be activated by tumor autocrine signaling loops, or by pro-inflammatory cytokines originating from non-tumor infiltrating leukocytes present in the tumor microenvironment.

Increased serum concentrations of several cytokines are observed in CLL and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (“NHL”), and predict a more aggressive disease progression. The source of these cytokines may be derived from the tumor itself in an autocrine stimulation fashion, or from non-tumor leukocytes which have mounted an ineffective immune response within the tumor microenvironment. Experimentally, IL4 has been shown to promote the survival of CLL B-cells in culture and protect them from death by treatment with fludarabine and chlorambucil. The mechanism underlying this survival support appears to be cytokine-induced up-regulation of BCL2 family members.

The importance of B cell receptor (BCR) mediated signaling in the pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) has become even more apparent in recent years, and drugs which target kinases within the BCR signaling complex are revolutionizing the treatment of this disease. Recently approved agents for relapsed/refractory CLL include ibrutinib (BTK inhibitor) and idelalisib (PI3Kδ inhibitor). To date, these compounds have not proved curative, which may in part be mediated by signals from the tumor microenvironment. Importantly, a proportion of patients are developing resistance to these new agents, either through mutations in BTK or PLCγ for ibrutinib or because of as yet unknown mechanisms. Spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) belongs to the SYK/ZAP70 family of non-receptor kinases and plays a central role in the transmission of activating signals downstream of the BCR, chemokine and integrin receptors within B cells, and remains an intriguing target for the treatment of certain B cell malignancies and autoimmune disease.

CLL cells are dependent upon signals from various cells constituting the microenvironment. Using gene set enrichment analysis, an IL-4 gene signature was identified, which was enriched in lymph node tissue compared with matched blood and bone marrow. IL-4 signals in lymphocytes are derived predominantly through the type 1 IL-4 receptor (IL-4R) via Janus protein tyrosine kinases JAK1 and JAK3 resulting in phosphorylation of STAT6 (pSTAT6).

Compositions and methods described herein address the deficiencies in current treatment protocols for patients having certain mutations or being resistant to current therapies. The compositions and methods described herein also provide synergistic treatments for treatment naïve patients whether they have the mutations or not.

Compositions

Compositions described herein comprise cerdulatinib. Cerdulatinib is a small molecule, ATP-competitive, reversible inhibitor of both SYK and JAK family members that has demonstrated potent and broad activity in pre-clinical models of B cell cancer and autoimmune disease. Cerdulatinib, described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,138,339, has a chemical name of 4-(cyclopropylamino)-2-(4-(4-(ethylsulfonyl)piperazin-1-yl)phenylamino)pyrimidine-5-carboxamide, and has the formula of:

In some embodiments described herein, cerdulatinib may also refer to a salt or prodrug thereof. In some embodiments described herein, cerdulatinib may also refer to a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or prodrug thereof.

As used herein, the term “pharmaceutically acceptable salt” refers to any acid or base addition salt whose counter-ions are non-toxic to the patient in pharmaceutical doses of the salts. A host of pharmaceutically acceptable salts are well known in the pharmaceutical field. If pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the compounds of this disclosure are utilized in these compositions, those salts are preferably derived from inorganic or organic acids and bases. Included among such acid salts are the following: acetate, adipate, alginate, aspartate, benzoate, benzene sulfonate, bisulfate, butyrate, citrate, camphorate, camphor sulfonate, cyclopentanepropionate, digluconate, dodecylsulfate, ethanesulfonate, fumarate, lucoheptanoate, glycerophosphate, hemisulfate, heptanoate, hexanoate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, 2-hydroxyethanesulfonate, lactate, maleate, methanesulfonate, 2-naphthalenesulfonate, nicotinate, oxalate, pamoate, pectinate, persulfate, 3-phenyl-propionate, picrate, pivalate, propionate, succinate, tartrate, thiocyanate, tosylate, undecanoate, hydrohalides (e.g., hydrochlorides and hydrobromides), sulphates, phosphates, nitrates, sulphamates, malonates, salicylates, methylene-bis-b-hydroxynaphthoates, gentisates, isethionates, di-p-toluoyltartrates, ethanesulphonates, cyclohexylsulphamates, quinates, and the like. Pharmaceutically acceptable base addition salts include, without limitation, those derived from alkali or alkaline earth metal bases or conventional organic bases, such as triethylamine, pyridine, piperidine, morpholine, N-methylmorpholine, ammonium salts, alkali metal salts, such as sodium and potassium salts, alkaline earth metal salts, such as calcium and magnesium salts, salts with organic bases, such as dicyclohexylamine salts, N-methyl-D-glucamine, and salts with amino acids such as arginine, lysine, and so forth.

Furthermore, the basic nitrogen-containing groups may be quaternized with agents like lower alkyl halides, such as methyl, ethyl, propyl and butyl chlorides, bromides and iodides; dialkyl sulfates, such as dimethyl, diethyl, dibutyl and diamyl sulfates, long chain halides, such as decyl, lauryl, myristyl and stearyl chlorides, bromides and iodides; aralkyl halides, such as benzyl and phenethyl bromides and others. Water or oil-soluble or dispersible products are thereby obtained.

“Prodrug”s of cerdulatinib (or other compounds described herein) are also encompassed and are those compounds that readily undergo chemical changes under physiological conditions to provide the compounds of the present disclosure. Additionally, prodrugs can be converted to the compounds of the present disclosure by chemical or biochemical methods in an ex vivo environment. For example, prodrugs can be slowly converted to the compounds of the present disclosure when placed in a transdermal patch reservoir with a suitable enzyme or chemical reagent. Prodrugs are frequently, but not necessarily, pharmacologically inactive until converted into the active drug. Prodrugs are typically obtained by masking a functional group in the drug believed to be in part required for activity with a progroup (defined below) to form a promoiety which undergoes a transformation, such as cleavage, under the specified conditions of use to release the functional group, and hence the active drug. The cleavage of the promoiety may proceed spontaneously, such as by way of a hydrolysis reaction, or it may be catalyzed or induced by another agent, such as by an enzyme, by light, by acid or base, or by a change of or exposure to a physical or environmental parameter, such as a change of temperature. The agent may be endogenous to the conditions of use, such as an enzyme present in the cells to which the prodrug is administered or the acidic conditions of the stomach, or it may be supplied exogenously.

“Progroup” refers to a type of protecting group that, when used to mask a functional group within an active drug to form a promoiety, converts the drug into a prodrug. Progroups are typically attached to the functional group of the drug via bonds that are cleavable under specified conditions of use. Thus, a progroup is that portion of a promoiety that cleaves to release the functional group under the specified conditions of use. As a specific example, an amide promoiety of the formula —NH—C(O)CH₃ comprises the progroup —C(O)CH₃.

A wide variety of progroups, as well as the resultant promoieties, suitable for masking functional groups in the compounds described herein to yield prodrugs are well-known in the art. For example, an amino functional group may be masked as an amide, carbamate, imine, urea, phosphenyl, phosphoryl or sulfenyl promoiety, which may be hydrolyzed in vivo to provide the amino group. The disclosure includes those esters and acyl groups known in the art for modifying the solubility or hydrolysis characteristics for use as sustained-release or prodrug formulations. Other specific examples of suitable progroups and their respective promoieties will be apparent to those of skill in the art.

It is contemplated that cerdulatinib may be useful for heavily pre-treated patients and/or relapse/refractory hematological cancers, including but not limited to CLL, FL, NHL, and DLBCL. Cerdulatinib also has been shown to induce apoptosis in primary Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) cells in vitro. Cerdulatinib has been shown to induce apoptosis in primary CLL, with preferential activity in cases of poor prognosis such as unmutated IGHV, high CD49d, ZAP-70, or surface IgM expression.

Some chemotherapeutic agents cause drug resistance in a patient inflicted with a variety of haematological cancers, for example, due to BCR or cytokine-mediated signalling, IL-4 mediated signalling and/or BCR activation pathways, which are protective of hematological cancer. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, cerdulatinib can overcome these protective mechanisms, which lead to drug resistance.

Some embodiments provide for a composition comprising cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or prodrug thereof, and a chemotherapeutic agent.

According to some embodiments, a composition is provided that comprises cerdulatinib or a salt thereof and a chemotherapeutic agent selected from a BCL-2 inhibitor, a BTK inhibitor, a P13Kδ inhibitor, a platinum-based drug, an antimetabolite, and a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the chemotherapeutic agent is a BCL-2 inhibitor, a BTK inhibitor, a P13Kδ inhibitor, an anti-CD20 antibody, ABT-199 (venetoclax), rituximab (Rituxan®, Mabthera®, Zytux®), a platinum-based drug, an antimetabolite, ibrutinib (Imbruvica®), idelalisib (Zydelig®), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the chemotherapeutic agent is selected from the group consisting of venetoclax, rituximab, ibrutinib, idelalisib, gemcitabine, oxaliplatin, and a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the chemotherapeutic agent is duvelisib (PI3K-δ and PI3K-γ inhibitor), ublituximab (an anti-CD20 antibody), obinutuzumab (an anti-CD20 antibody), ACP-196 (a BTK inhibitor), TGR-1202 (PI3K-δ inhibitor), nivolumab (an anti-PD-1 antibody), pembrolizumab (an anti-PD-1 antibody), pidilizumab (an anti-PD-1 antibody), CTL019 (a CAR-T inhibitor), KTE-C19 CAR (a CAR-T inhibitor), or EPZ-6438 (an EZH2 inhibitor), alisertib (aurora kinase inhibitor), or mogamulizumab (anti-CCR4 antibody).

In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and the chemotherapeutic agent can provide a synergistic effect in apoptosis. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and the chemotherapeutic agent can provide a synergistic effect in cell lines expressing a Bcl-2 protein. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and the chemotherapeutic agent can provide a synergistic effect in cell lines expressing a Bim protein.

In some embodiments, cerdulatinib is administered in a therapeutic dose and the amount of the other chemotherapeutic agent may be in an amount that is reduced by about 10% to about 65% of the agent's therapeutic dose, which dose is described herein.

In some embodiments, the composition includes cerdulatinib and the chemotherapeutic agent in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to the chemotherapeutic agent of about 300:1 to about 3:1.

In some embodiments, the composition is used to treat a hematological cancer, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), follicular lymphoma (FL), transformed follicular lymphoma (tFL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), and/or mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).

In some embodiments, the composition is used to treat a haematological cancer, wherein the hematologic cancer is Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL), Follicular Lymphoma (FL), transformed Follicular Lymphoma (tFL), Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL), Marginal Zone Lymphoma, Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT), or Waldenstrom Macroglobluinemia (WM).

In some embodiments, a composition is provided that comprises cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a chemotherapeutic agent, venetoclax, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient. In some embodiments, the composition comprises cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or prodrug thereof, and a chemotherapeutic agent, venetoclax, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or prodrug thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient.

ABT-199 (venetoclax) is a BCL2 inhibitor and is described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,722,657 and 8,580,794. Venetoclax has a chemical name of 4-(4-{[2-(4-chlorophenyl)-4,4-dimethylcyclohex-1-en-1-yl]methyl}piperazin-1-yl)-N-({3-nitro-4-[(tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-ylmethyl)amino]phenyl}-sulfonyl)-2-(1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridin-5-yloxy)benzamide and has the formula of:

In embodiments described herein, venetoclax may also refer to a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof (as defined above).

In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and venetoclax provide a synergistic effect in apoptosis.

In some embodiments is provided a composition comprising cerdulatinib and venetoclax in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax of about 300:1 to about 3:1. In some embodiments, the composition comprises cerdulatinib and/or venetoclax in sub-therapeutic amounts. For example, it is contemplated that cerdulatinib is administered in a therapeutic dose and the amount of venetoclax may be in an amount that is reduced by about 10% to about 65% of the agent's therapeutic dose, which dose is described herein. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib is administered in a therapeutically effective amount as defined herein and the amount of venetoclax may be in an amount that is reduced by about 10% to about 50% of venetoclax's therapeutic dose.

In some embodiments, the composition includes cerdulatinib and venetoclax in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax of about 9:1 to about 1:9. In some embodiments, the composition includes cerdulatinib and venetoclax in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax of about 2:1 to about 1:2. In some embodiments, the composition includes cerdulatinib and venetoclax in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax of about 2:1 to about 1:5. In some embodiments, the composition includes cerdulatinib and venetoclax in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax of about 1:1. In some embodiments, the composition includes cerdulatinib and venetoclax in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax is about 1:1, about 1:2, about 1:9, about 2:1, or about 9:1.

In some embodiments, venetoclax, whether alone or in combination with cerdulatinib, is administered at about 400 mg daily. In some embodiments, venetoclax, whether alone or in combination with cerdulatinib, is administered at 20 mg daily for the first 7 days the subject is taking venetoclax.

Ibrutinib (Imbruvica®) is a BTK inhibitor and is described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,514,444. Ibrutinib has a chemical name of 1-[(3R)-3-[4-Amino-3-(4-phenoxyphenyl)-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidin-1-yl]piperidin-1-yl]prop-2-en-1-one and has the formula of:

In some embodiments, the composition comprises cerdulatinib and ibrutinib. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib of about 300:1 to about 3:1.

In some embodiments, cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or prodrug thereof, and ibrutinib are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib is about 2:1 to about 1:5. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib are administered in sub-therapeutic amounts.

In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib is about 9:1 to about 1:9. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib is about 2:1 to about 1:2. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib is about 1:1. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib is about 1:1, about 1:2, about 1:9, about 2:1, or about 9:1.

In some embodiments, ibrutinib is administered at about 420 mg to about 560 mg per day. In some embodiments, ibrutinib is administered at about 140 mg and is administered three or four times per day. In some embodiments, ibrutinib, when administered in combination with cerdulatinib, is administered at about 210 mg to about 280 mg per day. In some embodiments, ibrutinib, when administered in combination with cerdulatinib, is administered at about 140 mg and is administered once, once and a half, or twice daily. In some embodiments, ibrutinib is administered at 560 mg per day. In some embodiments, ibrutinib is administered at 420 mg per day. In some embodiments, ibrutinib is administered at 280 mg per day. In some embodiments, ibrutinib is administered at 140 mg per day.

In some embodiments, cerdulatinib is administered in a therapeutically effective amount as defined herein and the amount of ibrutinib may be in an amount that is reduced by about 10% to about 50% of ibrutinib's therapeutic dose.

The amounts of compounds described herein to be administered can be determined by standard procedures taking into account factors such as the compound IC₅₀, the biological half-life of the compound, the age, size, and weight of the subject, and the indication being treated. The importance of these and other factors are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Generally, a dose will be between about 0.01 and 50 mg/kg, or 0.1 and 20 mg/kg of the subject being treated. Multiple doses may be used.

According to some embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib is an amount that exhibits less than a 15% reduction in apoptosis in vitro in the presence of IL-4 and/or CD40L, wherein IL-4 and/or CD40L are present in any amounts that are expected to be present in lymph node tissue sites. In some embodiments, the chemotherapeutic agent is administered at an amount to result in a reduction in apoptosis in vitro by at least 15% in the presence of IL-4 and/or CD40L, wherein IL-4 and/or CD40L are present in any amount that is expected to be present in lymph node tissue sites.

In certain embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib used in the methods, either alone or in one of the prescribed combinations, is at least about 10 mg per day. In one embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib is at least about 10, 20, 30, 40, or 50 mg per dosage. In one embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib is at least about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 or 100 mg per day.

In one embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib is at least 30 mg, 35 mg, 40 mg, 45 mg, 50 mg, 55 mg, 60 mg, or 65 mg per day. In one embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib is at least about 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mg, or 35 mg and is administered twice daily.

In certain embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib is no more than about 500, 400, 300, 200, 150, 120, or 100 mg per day. In one embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib is no more than about 300, 200, 150, 120, 100, 90, 80, 70, 60, 55 or 50 mg per dosage.

In certain embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib is no more than about 100 mg, 95 mg, 90 mg, 85 mg, 80 mg, or 75 mg per day. In certain embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib is no more than 45 mg, 40 mg, 35 mg, or 30 mg and is administered twice daily.

In one embodiment, cerdulatinib, whether alone or in combination with another agent, is administered at from about 10 mg to 200 mg, from about 25 mg to 150 mg, from about 50 to 120 mg, or from about 80 to 100 mg a day.

In one embodiment, the therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib, whether alone or in combination with another agent, is 25 mg to 120 mg daily. In some embodiments, the effective amount of cerdulatinib is 25 mg to 50 mg twice daily.

In one embodiment, cerdulatinib, whether alone or in combination with another agent, is administered at from about 10 mg to 150 mg, from about 25 mg to 120 mg, from about 30 to 80 mg, from about 40 to 50 mg a dosage, once or twice a day. In certain embodiments, cerdulatinib, whether alone or in combination with another agent, is administered once, twice, three times or four times a day.

In one embodiment, cerdulatinib, whether alone or in combination with another agent, is administered from about 30 mg to about 80 mg once a day. In one embodiment, cerdulatinib, whether alone or in combination with another agent, is administered from about 15 mg to about 40 mg twice a day.

In one embodiment, 45 mg of cerdulatinib, whether alone or in combination with another agent, is administered twice daily. In one embodiment, 35 mg of cerdulatinib, whether alone or in combination with another agent, is administered twice daily.

In some embodiments, the effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is about 40 mg to about 50 mg administered twice daily.

In some embodiments, the effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is about 30 mg to about 40 mg administered twice daily.

In some embodiments, the effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, whether alone or in combination with another agent, is administered from about 30 mg to about 45 mg a day.

In some embodiments, 30 mg of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, whether alone or in combination with another agent, is administered twice daily.

In the present context, the term “therapeutically effective” or “effective amount” as described herein indicates that a compound or material or amount of the compound or material when administered is sufficient or effective to prevent, alleviate, or ameliorate one or more symptoms of a disease, disorder or medical condition being treated, and/or to prolong the survival of the subject being treated. The therapeutically effective amount will vary depending on the compound, the disease, disorder or condition and its severity and the age, weight, etc., of the mammal to be treated. The dosage can be conveniently administered, e.g., in divided doses up to four times a day or in sustained-release form.

The term “therapeutic dose” refers to an amount of the compound or material that may be required to produce a desired effect.

As used herein, “daily dose” refers to a total amount of a therapeutic substance that is to be taken within 24 hours.

Pharmaceutical Preparations

Compositions described throughout may be administered in a variety of pharmaceutical preparations. Suitable dosage forms, in part, depend upon the use or the route of administration, for example, oral, transdermal, transmucosal, inhalant, or by injection (parenteral). Such dosage forms should allow the compound to reach target cells. Other factors are well known in the art, and include considerations such as toxicity and dosage forms that retard the compound or composition from exerting its effects. Techniques and formulations generally may be found in The Science and Practice of Pharmacy, 21^(st) edition, Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins, Philadelphia, Pa., 2005 (hereby incorporated by reference herein).

Carriers or excipients can be used to produce compositions. The carriers or excipients can be chosen to facilitate administration of the compound. Examples of carriers include calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, various sugars such as lactose, glucose, or sucrose, or types of starch, cellulose derivatives, gelatin, vegetable oils, polyethylene glycols and physiologically compatible solvents. Examples of physiologically compatible solvents include sterile solutions of water for injection (WFI), saline solution, and dextrose.

The term “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient” means a carrier or excipient that is useful in preparing a pharmaceutical composition that is generally safe, non-toxic and neither biologically nor otherwise undesirable, and includes a carrier or excipient that is acceptable for veterinary use as well as human pharmaceutical use. A “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient” as used herein includes both one and more than one such carrier or excipient.

The term “administering” refers to oral administration, administration as a suppository, topical contact, intravenous, intraperitoneal, intramuscular, intralesional, intranasal or subcutaneous administration, or the implantation of a slow-release device e.g., a mini-osmotic pump, to a subject. Administration is by any route, including parenteral and transmucosal (e.g., buccal, sublingual, palatal, gingival, nasal, vaginal, rectal, or transdermal). Parenteral administration includes, e.g., intravenous, intramuscular, intra-arteriole, intradermal, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, intraventricular, and intracranial. Other modes of delivery include, but are not limited to, the use of liposomal formulations, intravenous infusion, transdermal patches, etc.

The compounds can be administered by different routes including intravenous, intraperitoneal, subcutaneous, intramuscular, oral, transmucosal, rectal, transdermal, or inhalant. In some embodiments, the compounds can be administered by oral administration. For oral administration, for example, the compounds can be formulated into conventional oral dosage forms such as capsules, tablets, and liquid preparations such as syrups, elixirs, and concentrated drops.

For inhalants, compounds of the disclosure may be formulated as dry powder or a suitable solution, suspension, or aerosol. Powders and solutions may be formulated with suitable additives known in the art. For example, powders may include a suitable powder base such as lactose or starch, and solutions may comprise propylene glycol, sterile water, ethanol, sodium chloride and other additives, such as acid, alkali and buffer salts. Such solutions or suspensions may be administered by inhaling via spray, pump, atomizer, or nebulizer, and the like. The compounds of the disclosure may also be used in combination with other inhaled therapies, for example corticosteroids such as fluticasone propionate, beclomethasone dipropionate, triamcinolone acetonide, budesonide, and mometasone furoate; beta agonists such as albuterol, salmeterol, and formoterol; anticholinergic agents such as ipratropium bromide or tiotropium; vasodilators such as treprostinal and iloprost; enzymes such as DNAase; therapeutic proteins; immunoglobulin antibodies; an oligonucleotide, such as single or double stranded DNA or RNA, siRNA; antibiotics such as tobramycin; muscarinic receptor antagonists; leukotriene antagonists; cytokine antagonists; protease inhibitors; cromolyn sodium; nedocril sodium; and sodium cromoglycate.

Pharmaceutical preparations for oral use can be obtained, for example, by combining the active compounds with solid excipients, optionally grinding a resulting mixture, and processing the mixture of granules, after adding suitable auxiliaries, if desired, to obtain tablets or dragee cores. Suitable excipients are, in particular, fillers such as sugars, including lactose, sucrose, mannitol, or sorbitol; cellulose preparations, for example, maize starch, wheat starch, rice starch, potato starch, gelatin, gum tragacanth, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropylmethyl-cellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and/or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP: povidone). If desired, disintegrating agents may be added, such as the cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone, agar, or alginic acid, or a salt thereof such as sodium alginate.

Dragee cores are provided with suitable coatings. For this purpose, concentrated sugar solutions may be used, which may optionally contain, for example, gum arabic, talc, polyvinylpyrrolidone, carbopol gel, polyethylene glycol (PEG), and/or titanium dioxide, lacquer solutions, and suitable organic solvents or solvent mixtures. Dye-stuffs or pigments may be added to the tablets or dragee coatings for identification or to characterize different combinations of active compound doses.

Pharmaceutical preparations that can be used orally include push-fit capsules made of gelatin (“gelcaps”), as well as soft, sealed capsules made of gelatin, and a plasticizer, such as glycerol or sorbitol. The push-fit capsules can contain the active ingredients in admixture with filler such as lactose, binders such as starches, and/or lubricants such as talc or magnesium stearate and, optionally, stabilizers. In soft capsules, the active compounds may be dissolved or suspended in suitable liquids, such as fatty oils, liquid paraffin, or liquid polyethylene glycols (PEGs). In addition, stabilizers may be added.

Alternatively, injection (parenteral administration) may be used, e.g., intramuscular, intravenous, intraperitoneal, and/or subcutaneous. For injection, the compounds of the disclosure are formulated in sterile liquid solutions, such as in physiologically compatible buffers or solutions, such as saline solution, Hank's solution, or Ringer's solution. In addition, the compounds may be formulated in solid form and redissolved or suspended immediately prior to use. Lyophilized forms can also be produced.

Administration can also be by transmucosal, topical, transdermal, or inhalant means. For transmucosal, topical or transdermal administration, penetrants appropriate to the barrier to be permeated are used in the formulation. Such penetrants are generally known in the art, and include, for example, for transmucosal administration, bile salts and fusidic acid derivatives. In addition, detergents may be used to facilitate permeation. Transmucosal administration, for example, may be through nasal sprays or suppositories (rectal or vaginal).

The topical compositions of this disclosure are formulated as oils, creams, lotions, ointments, and the like by choice of appropriate carriers known in the art. Suitable carriers include vegetable or mineral oils, white petrolatum (white soft paraffin), branched chain fats or oils, animal fats and high molecular weight alcohol (greater than C₁₂). In another embodiment, the carriers are those in which the active ingredient is soluble. Emulsifiers, stabilizers, humectants and antioxidants may also be included as well as agents imparting color or fragrance, if desired. Creams for topical application are formulated from a mixture of mineral oil, self-emulsifying beeswax and water in which mixture the active ingredient, dissolved in a small amount solvent (e.g. an oil), is admixed. Additionally, administration by transdermal means may comprise a transdermal patch or dressing such as a bandage impregnated with an active ingredient and optionally one or more carriers or diluents known in the art. To be administered in the form of a transdermal delivery system, the dosage administration will, of course, be continuous rather than intermittent throughout the dosage regimen.

The compounds of the disclosure may also be used in combination with other therapies for treating the same disease. Such combination use includes administration of the compounds and one or more other therapeutics at different times, or co-administration of the compound and one or more other therapies. In some embodiments, dosage may be modified for one or more of the compounds of the disclosure or other therapeutics used in combination, e.g., reduction in the amount dosed relative to a compound or therapy used alone, by methods well known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

It is understood that use in combination includes use with other therapies, drugs, medical procedures etc., where the other therapy or procedure may be administered at different times (e.g. within a short time, such as within hours (e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4-24 hours), or within a longer time (e.g. 1-2 days, 2-4 days, 4-7 days, 1-4 weeks)) than a compound of the present disclosure, or at the same time as a compound of the disclosure. Use in combination also includes use with a therapy or medical procedure that is administered once or infrequently, such as surgery, along with a compound of the disclosure administered within a short time or longer time before or after the other therapy or procedure. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides for delivery of compounds of the disclosure and one or more other drug therapeutics delivered by a different route of administration or by the same route of administration. The use in combination for any route of administration includes delivery of compounds of the disclosure and one or more other drug therapeutics delivered by the same route of administration together in any formulation, including formulations where the two compounds are chemically linked in such a way that they maintain their therapeutic activity when administered. In one embodiment, the other drug therapy may be co-administered with one or more compounds of the disclosure. Use in combination by co-administration includes administration of co-formulations or formulations of chemically joined compounds, or administration of two or more compounds in separate formulations within a short time of each other (e.g. within an hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, up to 24 hours), administered by the same or different routes. Co-administration of separate formulations includes co-administration by delivery via one device, for example the same inhalant device, the same syringe, etc., or administration from separate devices within a short time of each other. Co-formulations of compounds of the disclosure and one or more additional drug therapies delivered by the same route includes preparation of the materials together such that they can be administered by one device, including the separate compounds combined in one formulation, or compounds that are modified such that they are chemically joined, yet still maintain their biological activity. Such chemically joined compounds may have a linkage that is substantially maintained in vivo, or the linkage may break down in vivo, separating the two active components.

Methods

Some embodiments provided herein are related to methods for treating a hematological cancer in a patient in need thereof comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib. In some embodiments, a method is provided for treating a hematological cancer in a patient in need thereof comprising administering to the patient a composition as described herein.

Some embodiments provided herein are related to methods of treating a patient suffering from one or more of a B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), follicular lymphoma (FL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) or other transformed FL.

“Patient” refers to human and non-human animals, especially mammals. Examples of patients include, but are not limited to, humans, cows, dogs, cats, goats, sheep, pigs and rabbits.

The terms “treat,” “treating,” “treatment,” and grammatical variations thereof as used herein, includes partially or completely delaying, alleviating, mitigating or reducing the intensity of one or more attendant symptoms of a disorder or condition and/or alleviating, mitigating or impeding one or more causes of a disorder or condition. Treatments as described herein may be applied preventively, prophylactically, pallatively or remedially.

The terms “prevent,” “preventing,” “prevention,” and grammatical variations thereof as used herein, refers to a method of partially or completely delaying or precluding the onset or recurrence of a disorder or condition and/or one or more of its attendant symptoms or barring a subject from acquiring or reacquiring a disorder or condition or reducing a subject's risk of acquiring or requiring a disorder or condition or one or more of its attendant symptoms.

The methods and compositions described herein will typically be used in therapy for human subjects. However, they may also be used to treat similar or identical indications in other animal subjects. In this context, the terms “subject,” “animal subject,” and the like refer to human and non-human vertebrates, e.g. mammals, such as non-human primates, sports and commercial animals, e.g., equines, bovines, porcines, ovines, rodents, and pets, e.g., canines and felines.

For the embodiments described herein, the therapy may be a monotherapy with cerdulatinib or a combination therapy comprising compositions described herein.

In some embodiments, the patient suffers one or more of B-cell malignancy, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), follicular lymphoma (FL), or transformed FL.

In some embodiments, the patient suffers from an advanced malignancy.

In some embodiments, the patient has relapsed or not responded to a prior chemotherapy. In some embodiments, the patient has failed at least two prior therapies. In some embodiments, the patient has failed at least one prior therapy.

In some embodiments, the patient has a B cell malignancy. In some embodiments, the methods provided herein are used to treat a hematological cancer such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), follicular lymphoma (FL), transformed follicular lymphoma (tFL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), and/or mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).

In some embodiments, the methods provided herein are used to treat a hematological cancer such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), follicular lymphoma (FL), transformed follicular lymphoma (tFL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), and/or mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).

In some embodiments, the composition is used to treat a hematological cancer selected from Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL), Follicular Lymphoma (FL), transformed Follicular Lymphoma (tFL), Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL), Marginal Zone Lymphoma, Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT), and Waldenstrom Macroglobluinemia (WM).

In some embodiments, a method is provided for treating a hematological cancer in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib and an effective amount of a chemotherapeutic agent selected from a BCL-2 inhibitor, a BTK inhibitor, a P13Kδ inhibitor, rituximab, a platinum-based drug, an antimetabolite, and combinations thereof.

According to some embodiments, the method of treatment of a hematological cancer includes administering a chemotherapeutic agent used in treating a hematologic cancer. In some embodiments, the chemotherapeutic agent acts by a different mechanism of action than cerdulatinib (e.g., a mechanism other than dual SYK/JAK inhibition). In some embodiments, when administered together, concurrently or sequentially, cerdulatinib and the chemotherapeutic agent can provide a synergistic effect, for example in causing apoptosis or otherwise reducing tumor size. For example, cerdulatinib and the chemotherapeutic agent may each be administered to the patient in a sub-therapeutic amount (i.e. an amount that would be sub-therapeutic for each agent alone). Also, one of either cerdulatinib or the chemotherapeutic agent may be administered to the patient in a sub-therapeutic amount. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and the chemotherapeutic agent are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to the chemotherapeutic agent of about 300:1 to about 3:1 or 2:1 to about 1:5.

In some embodiments, the patient has a B cell malignancy. In some embodiments, the patient has a myeloid malignancy, such as multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia.

In some embodiments, the hematological cancer is chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). In some embodiments, the hematological cancer is small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL).

In some embodiments, the hematological cancer is a Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL). In some embodiments, the hematological cancer is aggressive NHL (such as DLBCL, FL3B, MCL or transformed NHL). In some embodiments, the hematological cancer is transformed Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL). In some embodiments, the hematological cancer is indolent NHL.

In some embodiments, the hematological cancer is follicular lymphoma (FL). In some embodiments, the FL is grade 1, grade 2, grade 3A (FL3a), or grade 3B (FL3b). In some embodiments, the hematological cancer is FL3b. In some embodiments, the hematological cancer is diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). In some embodiments, the hematological cancer is mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).

In some embodiments, the patient exhibits drug resistance, and/or a relapsed for, to a hematological cancer for a number of reasons. For example, the patient may have a mutation linked to relapse and/or a resistance to a drug for treating a hematological cancer. For example, the patient may comprise a del17p mutation, a TP 53 mutation, an ATM mutation, a STAT mutation, a STAT 6 mutation, a C481S STAT6 mutation, a mutation associated with the NOTCH pathway, a mutation associated with the Cadherin pathway, or a combination thereof.

Accordingly, some embodiments provide for a method for treating a hematological cancer in a patient in need thereof comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, or a composition as described herein, wherein the patient has a mutation linked to relapse and/or a resistance to another drug for treating a hematologic cancer.

Some embodiments provide for a method for treating a hematological cancer in a patient in need thereof comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, or a composition as described herein, wherein the patient has a mutation linked to relapse and/or a resistance to another drug for treating a hematologic cancer and the effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is about 25 mg to about 120 mg administered daily.

In some embodiments, the patient may have a mutation linked to relapse and/or a resistance to a drug for treating a hematological cancer. In some embodiments, the patient may comprise a del17p mutation, a TP 53 mutation, an ATM mutation, a STAT mutation, a STAT 6 mutation, a C481S BTK mutation, a mutation associated with the NOTCH pathway, or a mutation associated with the Cadherin pathway, or a combination thereof. According to some embodiments, the patient does not have a mutation in each of P53, BTK, and EP300. In some embodiments, the patient may have a S86A mutation in STAT.

In some embodiments, the patient may comprise a del17p mutation, a TP53 mutation, an ATM mutation, a STAT mutation, a STAT 6 mutation, a C481S BTK mutation, a mutation associated with the NOTCH pathway, a mutation associated with the Cadherin pathway, or a combination thereof. According to some embodiments, the patient does not have a mutation in all of P53, BTK, and EP300.

In some embodiments, the patient may comprise a del17p mutation, del11q mutation, a P 53 mutation, an ATM mutation, a STAT mutation, a STAT 6 mutation, a C481S STAT6 mutation, a mutation associated with the NOTCH pathway, a mutation associated with the Cadherin pathway, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the patient may comprise a del17p mutation, del11q mutation, a TP 53 mutation, an ATM mutation, a STAT mutation, a STAT 6 mutation, a C481S BTK mutation, a mutation associated with the NOTCH pathway, a mutation associated with the Cadherin pathway, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the patient has a MYD88 mutation, a CARD11 mutation, or a A20 mutation. In some embodiments, the patient has high-risk genetic abnormalities including del11q, trisomy 12, and del17p. In some embodiments, the patient has a del17p mutation. In some embodiments, the patient has a del11q mutation.

In some embodiments, the patient has a CD79B mutation, a MYD88 mutation, a CARD11 mutation, or a A20 mutation. In some embodiments, the patient has a CD79B mutation. In some embodiments, the patient does not have a IKB deletion.

In some embodiments, the patient has a PLCγ2 mutation. It is contemplated that, since cerdulatinib is a dual inhibitor of SYK (which is positioned upstream of phospholipase Cγ2 (“PLCγ2”) and JAK, is useful for treating patients with a mutation to PLCγ2.

In some embodiments, the patient has a BTK mutation. In some embodiments, the patient has a PLCγ2 mutation. In some embodiments, the patient does not have a IKB deletion. In some embodiments, the patient does not have a deletion of IkB-alpha, IkB-beta, IkB-episilon, or IkB-gamma.

In some embodiments, the patient may have a poor prognosis such as unmutated IGHV, high CD49d, ZAP-70, or surface IgM expression.

In some embodiments, the patient has resistance to a drug, which is not cerdulatinib. Non-limiting examples of these drugs are an anti-CD20 antibody, a BCL-2 inhibitor, a BTK inhibitor, a P13Kδ inhibitor, rituximab, a platinum-based drug, an antimetabolite, ibrutinib, idelalisib, fludararbine (fludarabine phosphate, Fludara®), an anthracycline, a BCR pathway inhibitor, venetoclax, or another chemotherapeutic agent used for treating a hematologic cancer. Other non-limiting examples of chemotherapeutic agents include alkylating agents, cytoskeletal disruptors, epothiolones, histone deacetylase inhibitors, inhibitors of topoisomerase I, inhibitors of topoisomerase II, nucleotide analogs and precursor analogs, antibiotics, platinum-based agents, retinoids, vinca alkaloids, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the patient has a resistance to a chemotherapeutic agent.

In some embodiments, the patient has resistance to an anti-CD20 antibody, a BCL-2 inhibitor, a BTK inhibitor, a P13Kδ inhibitor, a platinum-based drug, an antimetabolite, ananthracycline, a BCR pathway inhibitor, or another chemotherapeutic agent used for treating a hematologic cancer. In some embodiments, the patient has resistance to a drug selected from the group consisting of ibrutinib, idelalisib, fludararbine (fludarabine phosphate, FLUDARA®), or ABT-199 (venetoclax). In some embodiments, the patient has resistance to ibrutinib.

In some embodiments, the patient was previously administered a drug for treating a hematological cancer. Non-limiting examples the drug include an alkylating agent, an anti-CD20 antibody, a BCL-2 inhibitor, a BTK inhibitor, a P13Kδ inhibitor, rituximab, a platinum-based drug, an antimetabolite, ibrutinib, idelalisib, fludararbine (fludarabine phosphate, FLUDARA®), anthracyclines, a BCR pathway inhibitor, venetoclax, and other agents used for treating a hematologic cancer. Other non-limiting examples of chemotherapeutic agents include cytoskeletal disruptors, epothiolones, histone deacetylase inhibitors, inhibitors of topoisomerase I, inhibitors of topoisomerase II, nucleotide analogs and precursor analogs, antibiotics, platinum-based agents, retinoids, vinca alkaloids, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the patient was administered a drug selected from the group consisting of an alkylating agent, an anti-CD20 antibody, a BCL-2 inhibitor, a BTK inhibitor, a P13Kδ inhibitor, a platinum-based drug, an antimetabolite, an anthracycline, a BCR pathway inhibitor, and other agents used for treating a hematologic cancer. In some embodiments, the drug is rituximab, ibrutinib, idelalisib, fludararbine (fludarabine phosphate, Fludara®), or ABT-199 (venetoclax). In some embodiments, the drug is R-CHOP (Rituximab; Cyclophosphamide; Doxorubicin hydrochloride; (vincristine); Prednisone). In some embodiments, the drug is R-CVP (Rituximab; Cyclophosphamide; Vincristine; Prednisone). In some embodiments, the drug is bevacizumab. In some embodiments, the drug is a combination of fludarabine and rituximab, a combination of bendamustine and rituximab, or a combination of bevacizumab and rituximab.

In some embodiments, the patient was previously administered a drug selected from venetoclax, rituximab, ibrutinib, idelalisib, and fludararbine.

In certain embodiments, the patient is 60 years or older and relapsed after a first line cancer therapy. In certain embodiments, the patient is 18 years or older and is relapsed or refractory after a second line cancer therapy. In certain embodiments, the patient is 60 years or older and is primary refractory to a first line cancer therapy. In certain embodiments, the patient is 70 years or older and is previously untreated. In certain embodiments, the patient is 70 years or older and is ineligible and/or unlikely to benefit from cancer therapy.

In some embodiments, the patient expresses a Bcl-2 protein. In some embodiments, the patient expresses a Bim protein.

Some embodiments provide for a method of treating a hematologic cancer in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the patient has a CD79B mutation, has a PLCγ2 mutation, or does not have a IKB deletion.

Some embodiments provide for a method for treating B-cell lymphoma, comprising administering an effective amount of cerdulatinib or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof to a B-cell lymphoma patient having a cancerous cell having down-regulation of the IκBα gene, wherein the cell does not have an inactivating mutation on both alleles of the IκBα gene, does not have deregulation of the CD40 receptor signal pathway and does not have deregulation of the toll like receptor signaling pathway

In some embodiments, the cell does not have activation of CD40. In some embodiments, the cell does not have an inactive IκBα protein. In some embodiments, the cell has deregulation of the B-cell receptor signal pathway or the cytokine receptor signal pathway. In some embodiments, the cell has increased activity of CARD11 or MYD88, or decreased activity of A20.

Some embodiments provide for a method for determining whether a B-cell lymphoma patient is suitable for a therapy comprising cerdulatinib or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, comprising measuring, in a cancerous cell of the patient, the activity or expression of the IκBα protein or the activity of the CD40 receptor signal pathway or the toll like receptor pathway, and determining that the patient is not suitable for the therapy if the IκBα protein is inactive, if the CD40 receptor signaling pathway is deregulated, or if the toll like receptor signaling pathway is deregulated.

In some embodiments, the B-cell lymphoma is Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). In some embodiments, the cancerous cell is a B lymphocyte. In some embodiments, the deregulation of the CD40 receptor signaling pathway comprises activation of CD40.

Some embodiments provide for a method for treating B-cell lymphoma in a patient having a cancerous cell having down-regulation of the IκBα gene, comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and an NF-κB inhibitor. In some embodiments, the cell has deregulated CD40 receptor signaling or deregulated toll like receptor signaling. In some embodiments, the deregulation of the CD40 receptor signaling pathway comprises activation of CD40.

Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods for treating a haematological cancer in a patient in need thereof comprising administering an effective amount of cerdulatinib and an effective amount of venetoclax or administering to the patient a composition comprising cerdulatinib and venetoclax as described herein.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for treating a hematologic cancer in a patient in need thereof includes administering a therapeutically effective amount of a combination of cerdulatinib and a chemotherapeutic agent used for treating the same hematologic cancer (such as venetoclax), the combination including a sub-therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib and a sub-therapeutically effective amount of the chemotherapeutic agent.

Provided herein are methods of administering to a patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib and an effective amount of venetoclax to treat a hematologic cancer. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and venetoclax are administered concurrently or sequentially. In some embodiments, the hematologic cancer is a refractory or relapsed hematologic cancer. In some embodiments, the relapsed or refractory hematologic cancer is Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL), Follicular Lymphoma (FL), transformed Follicular Lymphoma (tFL), Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), or Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL).

Also provided herein are methods of using such compositions comprising cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a chemotherapeutic agent, such as venetoclax, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient, for the treatment of a hematologic cancer. In some embodiments, the hematologic cancer is a refractory or relapsed hematologic cancer. In some embodiments, the relapsed or refractory hematologic cancer is Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL), Follicular Lymphoma (FL), transformed Follicular Lymphoma (tFL), Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), or Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL).

In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and venetoclax are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax of about 300:1 to about 3:1. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and venetoclax are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax of about 9:1 to about 1:9. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and venetoclax are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax of about 2:1 to about 1:2. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and venetoclax are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax of about 2:1 to about 1:5. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and venetoclax are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax of about 1:1. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and venetoclax are administered in sub-therapeutic amounts. In some embodiments, the cerdulatinib and venetoclax are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to venetoclax is about 1:1, about 1:2, about 1:9, about 2:1, or about 9:1.

In some embodiments, venetoclax, whether alone or in combination with cerdulatinib, is administered at from about 0.01 and 50 mg/kg, or 0.1 and 20 mg/kg of the subject being treated. In some embodiments, venetoclax, whether alone or in combination with cerdulatinib, is administered at from about 10 mg, 20 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 250 mg, 300 mg, 350 mg, 400 mg, or about 450 mg once daily. In some embodiments, venetoclax, whether alone or in combination with cerdulatinib, is administered at less than about 600 mg, about 550 mg, about 500 mg, about 450 mg, about 400 mg, about 350 mg, about 300 mg, about 250 mg, about 200 mg, about 150 mg, about 100 mg, or about 50 mg daily.

In some embodiments, venetoclax, whether alone or in combination with cerdulatinib, is administered at about 400 mg daily. In some embodiments, venetoclax, whether alone or in combination with cerdulatinib, is administered at 20 mg daily for the first 7 days the subject is taking venetoclax.

Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods for treating a haematological cancer in a patient in need thereof comprising administering an effective amount of cerdulatinib and an effective amount of ibrutinib comprising administering to the patient a composition comprising cerdulatinib and ibrutinib as described herein.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for treating a hematologic cancer in a patient in need thereof includes administering a therapeutically effective amount of a combination of cerdulatinib and a chemotherapeutic agent used for treating the same hematologic cancer (such as ibrutinib), the combination including a sub-therapeutically effective amount of cerdulatinib and a sub-therapeutically effective amount of the chemotherapeutic agent.

In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib (Imbruvica®) are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib is about 2:1 to about 1:5. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib are administered in sub-therapeutic amounts. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib are administered concurrently or sequentially.

In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib is about 9:1 to about 1:9. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib is about 2:1 to about 1:2. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib is about 1:1. In some embodiments, cerdulatinib and ibrutinib) are administered in a mole ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib is about 1:1, about 1:2, about 1:9, about 2:1, or about 9:1.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method of treating a cancer in a subject in need thereof by administering to the subject an effective amount of a composition including any one or more compound(s) or combinations as described herein in combination with one or more other therapies or medical procedures effective in treating the cancer. Other therapies or medical procedures include suitable anticancer therapy (e.g. drug therapy, vaccine therapy, gene therapy, photodynamic therapy) or medical procedure (e.g. surgery, radiation treatment, hyperthermia heating, bone marrow or stem cell transplant). In one embodiment, the one or more suitable anticancer therapies or medical procedures is selected from treatment with a chemotherapeutic agent (e.g. chemotherapeutic drug), radiation treatment (e.g. x-ray, .gamma.-ray, or electron, proton, neutron, or .alpha. particle beam), hyperthermia heating (e.g. microwave, ultrasound, radiofrequency ablation), Vaccine therapy (e.g. AFP gene hepatocellular carcinoma vaccine, AFP adenoviral vector vaccine, AG-858, allogeneic GM-CSF-secretion breast cancer vaccine, dendritic cell peptide vaccines), gene therapy (e.g. Ad5CMV-p53 vector, adenovector encoding MDA7, adenovirus 5-tumor necrosis factor alpha), photodynamic therapy (e.g. aminolevulinic acid, motexatin lutetium), surgery, or bone marrow and stem cell transplantation.

Kits

In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides kits that include any one of the compounds or combinations as described here, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, a solvate, a tautomer, an isomer or a deuterated analog of any of these compounds, or a pharmaceutical composition thereof. In some embodiments, the compound or composition is packaged, e.g., in a vial, bottle, flask, which may be further packaged, e.g., within a box, envelope, or bag; the compound or composition is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or similar regulatory agency for administration to a mammal, e.g., a human; the compound or composition is approved for administration to a mammal, e.g., a human, for a protein kinase mediated disease or condition; the kits described herein may include written instructions for use and/or other indication that the compound or composition is suitable or approved for administration to a mammal, e.g., a human, for a protein kinase-mediated disease or condition; and the compound or composition may be packaged in unit dose or single dose form, e.g., single dose pills, capsules, or the like.

EXAMPLES Example 1: Cerdulatinib is Broadly Active Against 15 DLBCL Cell Lines at 2 μM

Materials and Methods: DLBCL Cell Line Viability Assays

Cell lines, purchased from ATCC, were screened using the CellTiter Glo (Promega) assay in 384 well plates using a ten-point concentration response curve to generate IC₅₀'s. Each IC₅₀ value is an average of at least four replicate experiments. Subsequent analysis using a FACS based caspase 3 cleavage detection kit (BD Biosciences) and Edu incorporation were performed.

Cerdulatinib demonstrated broad anti-tumor activity in DLBCL cell lines, relative to more targeted agents. Table 1 below summarizes IC₅₀ values of cerdulatinib compared to other relevant kinase inhibitors: PRT06318 (Syk inhibitor, which is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,963); InSolution™ JA Inhibitor I (CAS 457081-03-7; “Pan-Jak” in Table 3); CP-690550 (Jak3 Inhibitor); Idelalisib (PI3Kδ inhibitor); IPI-145 (PI3Kδ and γ inhibitor); and Doxorubicin (“Doxo;” anthracycline). These inhibitors are commercially available or are made according to synthetic methods known to those skilled in the art.

TABLE 1 IC₅₀ of Kinase Inhibitor in Cell Titer Glo Assay Cell Line Cerdulatinib PRT06-318 Pan-Jak CP690550 Idelalisib IPI-145 Doxo LY18 1.0 2.8 0.8 50 3.8 0.96 0.06 VAL 2.7 4.5 5.2 50 29 21 0.22 DHL6 1.2 0.9 2.63 50 0.03 0.002 0.14 LY10 0.29 0.31 5.1 50 12 5.7 0.04 DHL4 1.4 1.1 50 28 12 3.7 0.10 DHL5 0.31 0.44 39 41 1.3 0.33 0.03 U2932 2.6 8 3.9 50 40 27 0.35 LY1 4.4 10 0.7 50 4.9 1.3 0.19 DHL10 2.3 20 40 50 12 4.1 0.30 LY7 1.9 9 34 50 13 25 0.14 DHL8 3.1 19 28 38 49 45 0.15 DLCL2 5.4 9 42 50 15 5 0.18 DB 14 30 21.4 50 42 50 0.37 TOLEDO 6.9 15 5.9 41 50 18 0.44 RCK8 15.6 22 43 50 50 50 0.20

In a panel of 15 cell lines representing both ABC and GCB subtypes, 9 underwent apoptosis and an additional 2 underwent cell cycle arrest. Cooperative effects of SYR and JAR inhibition were observed in 4 of the cell lines, whereas 3 cell lines were sensitive to SYR but not JAR inhibition, and 1 cell line was sensitive to JAK but not SYR inhibition. Three of the 15 cell lines (DB, TOLEDO, and RCK8) were resistant to cerdulatinib.

Table 1 also shows that the LY10 (OCI-LY10) cell line, which contains a CD79 mutation, is sensitive to cerdulatinib. Table 1 further demonstrates that RCK8, a cell line that lacks IkB-alpha expression, can lead to resistance to cerdulatinib. Based on these observations, it is contemplated that cerdulatinib can be useful in the treatment of a patient bearing a CD79 mutation but not in a patient bearing a deletion in an IKB family member.

FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 depicts bar graphs that show the percent inhibition of Edu incorporation and percent induction of caspase 3 cleavage by FACS analysis, respectively.

The above data demonstrates that cerdulatinib is broadly active against DLBCL cell lines at 2 μM and acts predominately by inducing apoptosis.

It is contemplated that cerdulatinib is useful for treatment of B-cell leukemias and lymphomas, such as DLBCL.

Example 2: Effect of the Cerdulatinib on Primary Human CLL Cells

Cerdulatinib in 24 Primary CLL Samples

CLL cell isolation and culture: CLL cells (from patient whole blood) were purified using the Human B cell Enrichment Cocktail Kit (Stemcell Technologies, Vancouver, BC, Canada) and were stained with anti-CD5/CD19 for verification of the purity, which was greater than 95% for all cases. Isolated CLL cells were cultured in RPMI-1640 with 15% fetal bovine serum (Gibco, Grand Island, N.Y., USA), penicillin (100 IU), and streptomycin (100 μg/mL), at a density of 1×10⁷ cells/mL in the presence or absence of 2.5 mg/mL CpG, 100 ng/mL CD40L, 10 ng/mL IL-4. Anti-IgM stimulation was conducted with plate-bound anti-IgM (10 μg/mL). CLL cells were stimulated with 10 ng/mL IL-6 (R&D Systems, Minneapolis, Minn.), to detect the phosphorylation of JAK1/JAK2 (Cell Signaling Technology, Danvers, Mass.) and STAT3 (Cell Signaling Technology, Danvers, Mass., USA).

Cell viability assay and IC so determination: Isolated CD5⁺/CD19⁺ cells from CLL patients were incubated with or without increasing concentrations of cerdulatinib (10¹-10⁵ nM) for 72 hours and cell viability was measured by staining with 2 μg/mL propidium iodide (PI) (Molecular Probe), as previously described. Ten thousand events in a live cell gate were counted by a FACS LSR2 (BD Biosciences) and the data was normalized to the matched vehicle control for each specimen (100%). IC₅₀ was then generated using the GraphPad Prism 6 program (San Diego, Calif., USA).

Co-culture conditions: Human bone marrow stromal cell line HS-5 was obtained from ATCC and NK-Tert (NKTert) was kindly provided by Dr. Jan A. Burger (M.D. Anderson), CLL cell and stromal cell co-culture assays were described previously (e.g. Cheng et al., Leukemia. 2014; 28(3):649-657). Briefly, stromal cells were seeded at a concentration of 5×10⁴ cells/per well in 24-well plates and were incubated for 24 hours to allow cells to adhere. CLL cells were then added to the culture at a ratio of 100:1 (5×10⁶ cells/mL) on confluent layers of stromal cells in RPMI medium. CLL cells were harvested by gentle pipetting, leaving the adherent stromal cell layer intact.

Primary CLL samples with serial diluted cerdulatinib and measured cell viability after 72 hours with PI/7AAD flow cytometry.

Twenty four primary CLL samples were treated with cerdulatinib, a dual SYK/JAK inhibitor in the presence or absence of IL-4/CD40L and apoptosis assessed using propidium iodide/Annexin V staining and PARP cleavage. The effect of cerdulatinib on B cell receptor and cytokine receptor induced signalling was assessed by immunoblotting and flow cytometry.

CLL cells from 24 patients were treated with cerdulatinib for 24, 48 and 72 hours and viability assessed using propidium iodide and Annexin V staining. Cerdulatinib induced apoptosis in a concentration and time dependent manner.

Unmutated IGHV and high expression of CD49d are associated with progressive disease and a worse prognosis in CLL. Importantly for therapeutic use, cerdulatinib induced significantly greater apoptosis in U-CLL compared to M-CLL and in CLL cells with high CD49d or ZAP70 expression (>30%) compared to CLL cells with low CD49d or ZAP70 expression (<30%).

Treatment of CLL cells with cerdulatinib was found to induce cleavage/activation of the pro-apoptotic caspase 3 protein and also increased levels of the 85 kDa PARP sub-fragment, a marker of apoptosis. Cerdulatinib induced apoptosis was inhibited by co-treatment with the caspase inhibitor ZVAD, indicating that cerdulatinib induced apoptosis of CLL cells occurs via a caspase dependent mechanism. In addition, levels of the pro-apoptotic protein NOXA were increased after 24 hours of cerdulatinib treatment in the presence of ZVAD, whilst the anti-apoptotic protein MCL1 was decreased.

Ligation of the BCR in lymph nodes enhances CLL survival and resistance to chemotherapy. Cerdulatinib pre-treatment was able to inhibit both soluble anti-IgM and immobilised anti-IgM induced signalling pathways. IL-4 signals via the JAK/STAT-6 pathway in CLL cells and has been shown to be important in mediating protection from chemotherapy. Treatment of CLL cells with cerdulatinib abrogated IL-4 induced STAT6 phosphorylation. In addition, cerdulatinib inhibited IL-4 increased surface IgM expression after 24 hours in the presence of ZVAD.

In patients, lymph node tissue sites provide various signals which protect CLL cells from apoptosis. We have therefore used IL-4 and CD40L to mimic the lymph node environment in vitro. IL-4/CD40L treatment after 24 hours increased the viability of CLL cells compared to non-treated cells.

This Example shows that treatment of primary human CLL cells with cerdulatinib induced caspase dependent apoptosis, with increased potency in CLL samples poor prognostic markers; cerdulatinib overcame BCR and IL-4 mediated signalling at concentrations achievable in patients (˜2.2 μM); and cerdulatinib induced apoptosis in the presence or absence of IL-4/CD40L support.

Cerdulatinib in 60 CLL Samples

In 60 CLL samples analyzed according to the methods described above, IC₅₀ in 60 CLL ranged from 0.37 to 10.02 μM. The average IC₅₀ of cerdulatinib for the cohort was 2.57 μM, which is clinically achievable.

Whether cell killing by cerdulatinib differs among CLL subgroups stratified by known prognostic factors was also studied. It was found that CLL cells with unmutated IGHV (N=33) versus mutated IGHV (N=27) have lower IC₅₀s and thus were more sensitive to cerdulatinib (P=0.0395) (data analyzed with Student Test) (FIG. 5). CLL cells with high-risk genetic abnormalities (including del (11q), trisomy 12, and del (17p)) were also more sensitive to cerdulatinib than those with del (13q) or lacking these specific genetic anomalies altogether (FIG. 6). Thus, CLL cells are sensitive to cerdulatinib, especially in cases with poor prognosis by IGHV and cytogenetics.

It is also contemplated that cerdulatinib will also be useful in cases of poor prognosis as evidenced by, for example, Zap70.

Example 3: Clinical and Correlative Results of a Phase I Study of Cerdulatinib

A first-in-human study of cerdulatinib in patients with relapsed/refractory CLL/SLL or B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) was carried out. A 3+3 dose escalation study with 28-day cycles was carried out; the doses studied ranged from 15 mg to 65 mg once daily and up to 45 mg twice daily. Patients received a single dose on day 1 for 72 hour PK evaluation. Continuous dosing was initiated on day 4. 43 patients with CLL/SLL or B cell NHL were dosed. Median age was 67 years (range 23-85) and median prior therapies (tx) was 3 (range 1-8).

Pharmacokinetics (“PK”), pharmacodynamics (“PD”), and safety were monitored. Response was assessed by standard criteria. The level of inhibition of SYK and JAK was determined using a variety of whole blood assays measuring signaling via receptors for the B-cell antigen, IL2, IL4, IL6, and GM-CSF. Serum markers of tumor burden, including CCL3, CCL4, and other markers of inflammation (02M and CRP), were also being measured.

It was observed that PK was suitable for once daily dosing with a half-life of 12-16 hours and a 2:1 peak-trough ratio. At day 28 of cycle 1, saturating inhibition of SYK and JAK in circulating lymphocytes (80-90% inhibition) and serum inflammation markers (e.g., 02M, CRP, CCL4; 50-90% inhibition) occurred at plasma concentrations of about 0.6 to 1 μM, achieved at C_(min) of the 40 mg dose. At the 65 mg dose, these parameters were 80-90% inhibited on day 1 of cycle 1 indicating a more immediate effect compared to lower doses. At the 65 mg dose, steady state C_(min) and C_(max) concentrations were approximately 1 and 2 μM, respectively, sufficient to induce apoptosis in the majority of B cell lymphoma cell lines tested.

In general, cerdulatinib has been well tolerated. Ten total patients have remained on cerdulatinib for over 200 days, including 2 who have been on for a year or more.

Table 2 summarizes data of the steady state pharmacokinetics following oral dosing where n=28.

TABLE 2 Steady State PK Following Oral Dosing SS Cmin SS Cmax SS Cave AUC_tau T_(1/2) Dose Group μM μM μM μM*hr hr 15 mg/day 0.12 ± 0.38 ± 0.19 ± 4.5 ± 11.5 ± 0.04 0.04 0.03 0.8 3.9 30 mg/day 0.21 ± 0.63 ± 0.31 ± 7.5 ± 12.3 ± 0.12 0.18 0.12 3.0 6.8 40 mg/day 0.87 ± 1.48 ± 1.14 ± 27.3 ± 32.8 ± 0.07 0.15 0.03 0.8 17.0 45 mg/day* 0.82 ± 1.69 ± 1.11 ± 26.6 ± 22.3 ± 0.6 0.6 0.6 13.9 15.5 50 mg/day 0.90 ± 2.07 ± 1.31 ± 31.36± NA 0.14 0.54 0.41 9.95 Twice daily (“BID”) Regimens 15 mg/ 0.29 ± 0.53 ± 0.39 ± 4.7 ± 11.2 ± twice daily 0.11 0.13 0.11 1.3 4.3 20 mg/ 0.38 ± 0.89 ± 0.52 ± 6.2 ± 8.4± twice daily 0.02 0.16 0.09 1 1.8 *PK outlier (steady state Cmax of 0.15 μM) was removed from the group.

Where n=20, at a dose group of 45 mg BID, the following was observed: C_(min)=1.27±0.6 μM; C_(max)=2.16±0.5 μM; C_(ave) 1.4±0.7 μM; AUC_tau 33.3±15.9 μM*hr; T_(1/2)—27.5±22.5 hr.

It was observed that complete inhibition of BCR signaling was observed in whole blood from a FL patient following a single 65 mg dose of cerdulatinib.

Table 3 summarizes the PK/PD data where n=43.

TABLE 3 PK/PD of Dose Groups SS SS SS % Inh. % Inh. Dose Cmin Cmax Cave AUC_tau T_(1/2) BCR IL4 Group μM μM μM μM * hr hr (C_(min) − C_(max)) (C_(min) − C_(max)) Extrapolated from PK/PD fit of all data 15 0.12 ± 0.38 ± 0.19 ±  4.5 ± 0.8 11.5 ±  22 − 55% 16 − 42% mg/day 0.04 0.04 0.03 3.9 30 0.21 ± 0.63 ± 0.31 ±  7.5 ± 3.0 12.3 ±  31 − 83% 26 − 57% mg/day 0.12 0.18 0.12 6.8 40 0.87 ± 1.48 ± 1.14 ± 27.3 ± 0.8 32.8 ±  92 − 100% 63 − 78% mg/day 0.07 0.15 0.03 17.0 45 0.82 ± 1.69 ± 1.11 ± 26.6 ± 13.9 22.3 ± mg/day 0.6 0.6 0.6 15.5 50 0.79 ± 1.57 ± 0.99 ± 23.8 ± 14.9 39.0 ± mg/day 0.37 0.94 0.62 12.4 65 0.76 ± 1.67 ± 1.01 ± 24.2 ± 0.7 25.1 ± mg/day 0.04 0.09 0.03 6.5 100 0.37 1.11 0.68 16.3 14.4  53 − 98% 41 − 72% mg/day (one patient) 15 0.29 ± 0.53 ± 0.39 ±  4.7 ± 1.3 11.2 ±  42 − 74% 34 − 51% mg/twice 0.11 0.13 0.11 4.3 daily 20 0.38 ± 0.89 ± 0.52 ±  6.2 ± 1 8.4 ±  55 − 95% 42 − 66% mg/twice 0.02 0.16 0.09 1.8 daily 45 1.48 ±  1.8 ±  1.5 ± 100 − 100% 95 − 95% mg/twice 0.33 0.7 0.45 daily

In review of the 40-100 mg QD doses, the average steady state (SS) C_(min) and C_(max) concentrations plateaued at 0.77±0.41 and 1.63±0.56 μM, respectively, and the average steady state (SS) C_(ave) concentration was found to be 1.07±0.44 μM, % Inhibition of BCR (C_(min)-C_(max)) was 92-100%, and the % Inhibition of IL4 (C_(min)-C_(max)) was 63-78%. QD dosing of 40-100 mg resulted in 50 to 100% (steady-state C_(min) to C_(max)) inhibition of SYK and JAK signaling in peripheral blood, and significant inhibition of serum markers of inflammation.

Based on these results, it is contemplated that a daily dose of 10 mg to about 75 mg of cerdulatinib is useful for the treatment of hematological cancers in patients in need thereof.

The extent of inhibition of SYK and JAK signaling as well as inhibition of serum markers of inflammation significantly correlated with tumor response. While the PK is suitable for QD dosing with a t of 12-16 hours and a 2:1 peak-trough ratio, it is contemplated that the pH-dependent low solubility limited dissolution, and physiologic modeling suggested that BID dosing would increase overall exposure.

This was accomplished with the 45 mg BID dose, where complete inhibition of SYK and JAK at SS C_(min) peripheral blood assays was observed, consistent with an approximate doubling in exposure. At the 45 mg BID dose, SS C_(min) was increased to about 1.5 μM, a concentration sufficient to induce apoptosis in pre-clinical tumor models using both primary cells and cell lines. Subsequent evaluation of 45 mg BID doses in patients demonstrated higher C_(min), C_(max), and AUC values for all patients treated at this dose level and PD markers indicated complete inhibition of both pathways.

Treatment emergent adverse events (“AEs”) of ≥grade 3 deemed related to study and occurring in 2 or more patients were: fatigue (n=5), anemia and neutropenia (n=3 each), and abdominal pain, neutrophil count decrease, and pneumonia (n=2 each). The highest overall exposure was achieved at the 45 mg BID dose, in which 2 dose limiting toxicities (“DLTs”) occurred: grade 3 pancreatitis and grade 3 fatigue.

Based on the PK/AE profile, there appeared to be higher grades of adverse events at SS C_(min) of 1.25-1.5 μM or greater. PK modeling indicated a dose of 35 mg BID would yield a SS C_(min) of 1.02 μM, SS C_(max) of 1.3 μM, SS C_(ave) of 1.2 μM, 100-100% Inhibition of BCR (C_(min)−C_(max)), and 90-95% Inhibition of IL4 (C_(min)-C_(max)), which is predicted to be tolerable, efficacious, and provide consistent anti-tumor activity.

Consistent tumor responses were observed in relapsed/refractory CLL and FL patients with SS C_(min) of 0.7 μM.

Partial responses were observed in 5 heavily pretreated patients with CLL, FL, and transformed FL (Grade at 3B) at doses ranging from 30-65 mg QD. Two partial responses were observed in the 45 mg BID dose group, one in a patient with FL and another with CLL. Responses typically occurred after 2 cycles of treatment. Multiple patients have demonstrated nodal reductions and maintained clinical benefit for over a year.

CONCLUSIONS

Cerdulatinib has been well-tolerated in subjects with lymphoid malignancies. Cerdulatinib demonstrated a favorable PK profile and good tolerability at high levels of SYK and JAK inhibition. PK data supported once daily dosing, maintaining substantial inhibition at Cana. Dose-dependent and selective inhibition of SYK/JAK signaling with maximal inhibition was greater than 80 percent; no inhibition of JAK2 or PKC detected. BCR signaling pathway was 90-100% inhibited at steady state C_(min)/C_(max), JAK/STAT signaling is inhibited 60-80% C_(min)/C_(max). PK data indicated a plateau of exposure from 40 mg to 100 mg oral once daily, resulting in sub-micromolar exposure (about 0.7 μM) at stead-state C_(min). It is contemplated that solubility may be the reason. BID dosing overcomes this plateau in exposure and has enhanced PD effects.

Cerdulatinib significantly reduced multiple serum proteins in blood that are markers of inflammation, such as β2M, CRP, TNFR, and CCL3/4. Significant correlations were observed between tumor response and inhibition of serum markers of inflammation (e.g. β2M and CCL4).

Cerdulatinib has promising activity in heavily pre-treated patients. These data demonstrated evidence of clinical activity in this study of patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell malignancies. To date, partial responses have been observed, including in patients with CLL, FL, and DLBCL. Tumor reductions were seen in multiple patients, including those whose disease progressed on (or who could not tolerate) other BCR pathway inhibitors. Evidence of lymophocytosis was observed as seen with other BCR pathway inhibitors. Results also showed that cerdulatinib was well tolerated in these heavily pre-treated patients.

These results, including partial responses, provide additional evidence that cerdulatinib is active and well tolerated in patients with relapsed or refractory hematologic cancers.

Example 4: Cerdulatinib was Found to Block Proliferation of Ibrutinib-Sensitive and Ibrutinib-Resistant Primary CLL Cells and BTK^(C481S) Transfected Cell Lines

Ibrutinib was purchased from Selleckchem (Houston, Tex., USA).

Cell isolation and culture: CLL cells were purified using the Human B cell Enrichment Cocktail Kit (Stemcell Technologies, Vancouver, BC, Canada) and were stained with anti-CD5/CD19 (clone HIB19 and UCHT2, respectively, eBioscience, San Diego, Calif.) for verification of the purity, which was greater than 95% for all cases. Isolated CLL cells were cultured in RPMI-1640 with 15% fetal bovine serum (Gibco, Grand Island, N.Y.), penicillin (100 IU), and streptomycin (100 μg/mL), at a density of 1×10⁷ cells/mL in the presence or absence of 2.5 mg/mL CpG (ODN2006, stimulatory CpG-ODN type B, human specific, purchased from Invivogen (San Diego, Calif.)), 100 ng/mL CD40L (Enzo Life Sciences, Plymouth Meeting, Pa.), 10 ng/mL IL-4 CD40L (Enzo Life Sciences, Plymouth Meeting, Pa.). Anti-IgM stimulation was conducted with plate-bound anti-IgM (10 μg/mL).

Cell proliferation assays: Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) was added at the 8-day culture with combined stimulation (2.5 μg/mL CpG, 100 ng/mL CD40L, 10 ng/mL IL-4 and 10 μg/mL plate-bound anti-IgM). The percentage of BrdU⁺ cells was analyzed by flow cytometry using the BrdU Flow kit (BD Biosciences) according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Generation of BTK C481S and T316A mutant constructs: BTK wild type (WT) cDNA clone in pCMV6 expression vector was purchased from ORIGENE (Rockville, Md. USA). BTK^(C481S) and BTK^(T316A) mutant vectors were generated using the QuikChange II Site-Directed Mutagenesis Kit (Agilent Technologies, Cedar Creek, Tex., USA) following manufacturer's instructions. The identity of the mutant constructs was confirmed by Sanger sequencing.

Cell transfection, cell count and viability assay: TMD8 cells were transfected with constructs of WT BTK or BTK^(C481S) mutants using kit V, Program U-13 on Amaxa Nucleofector, according to the manufacturer's protocols (Amaxa, Cologne, Germany). After transfection, the cells were co-cultured with NKTert cells in a 24-well plate for 24 hrs for recovery. Ibrutinib, cerdulatinib and vehicle (DMSO) were then added into the transfected TMD8 cells and cellular viability was determined with Muse™ Count & Viability kit using Muse Cell Analyzer (Millipore, Hayward, Calif., USA).

Flow cytometry: Cell staining for FACS analysis was done with an optimized amount of fluorochrome conjugated mAbs as described previously (e.g. Cheng et al., Leukemia. 2014; 28(3):649-657). Briefly, after washing twice with washing buffer (1×PBS, 0.5% BSA, 0.1% NaN₃), 1×10⁶ cells were suspended in 100 μL washing buffer and stained with fluorochrome conjugated mAbs and incubated for 20 min at room temperature. Cells were washed twice in Perm/Wash buffer before scanning by flow cytometer. For intracellular phosphoflow analysis, freshly isolated CLL cells were immediately fixed with 2-4% paraformaldehyde and stored at −80° C. The cryopreserved cells were thawed at room temperature and permeated with 50% methanol on ice for 4 h. 1×10⁶ cells were suspended in 100 μL washing buffer and stained with fluorochrome conjugated mAbs and incubated for 20 min at room temperature. Flow cytometry was then conducted with LSR2 flow cytometer (BD Biosciences), and the data were analyzed using the FlowJo software (FLOWJO LLC, Ashland, Oreg., USA).

Primary cells isolated prior to ibrutinib therapy from patients who responded to ibrutinib were treated with either 250 nM of ibrutinib or cerdulatinib under the condition of combined stimulation. BrdU incorporation was measured at day 8. These cells responded equally well to either drug at this concentration.

Similar experiments on cells isolated from three ibrutinib-relapsed patients were also performed. These samples carry BTK mutations that confer ibrutinib resistance. Two of the patients had the known mutation BTK^(C481S), and one other patient had BTKT^(316A). Live cell number was counted daily for 7 days.

When these mutated cells were tested against ibrutinib and cerdulatinib, a significant number of BrdU⁺ CLL cells remained following ibrutinib treatment, whereas cerdulatinib almost completely blocked the appearance of BrdU⁺ cell populations in all three cases. These experiments demonstrate that cerdulatinib not only blocks cell proliferation in ibrutinib-sensitive but also ibrutinib-resistant CLL cells.

To test whether cerdulatinib directly suppresses the growth of ibrutinib-resistant cells, both BTK^(C481S) and wild type BTK (WT) expression vectors were constructed, cloned, and then transfected into the ibrutinib-sensitive lymphoma cell line TMD8. Cell growth following exposure to ibrutinib or cerdulatinib was assessed.

It was observed that the growth of WT BTK-transfected TMD8 cells was similarly inhibited by both ibrutinib and cerdulatinib at 250 nM (FIG. 3). However, BTK^(C481S)-transfected cells were less sensitive to ibrutinib, as expected (FIG. 4). Meanwhile, growth of these cells was effectively blocked by cerdulatinib, similar to the block observed in WT BTK cells.

Example 5: Case Studies for Patients with Follicular Lymphoma

CASE STUDY 1 (Patient 1): The patient was a 71 year old Caucasian female with transformed follicular 3B lymphoma (MYC/BCL2/BCL6 positive by IHC). The tumor was CD20+, CD10−, BCL2 (strong), cMYC (50%), and Ki67 (80%).

The patient's prior therapies included: R-CHOP (Rituximab; Cyclophosphamide; Doxorubicin hydrochloride; Oncovin; Prednisone) (November 2013-February 2014). The patient relapsed in February 2015. The patient began cerdulatinib 65 mg by mouth once daily (“PO QD”) in March 2015.

The following was observed: Steady state C_(min)-C_(max) was 0.73-1.74 μM; % Inhibition BCR signaling was 100%; % Inhibition IL2, IL4, IL6 signaling was 60-100%; and % Inhibition GM-CSF was ˜20%. The patient showed partial response to cerdulatinib (69%) after 2 cycles.

Patient 1 progressed in August 2015. Patient 1 relapsed following 5 cycles of therapy.

CASE STUDY 2 (Patient 2): The patient was a 71 year old Caucasian female with Follicular Lymphoma.

The patient's prior therapies included: Chlorambucil (1998; CR), Fludarabine/Rituxan (1999-2000; CR), and Avastin/Rituxan (March 2011-January 2012). Patient 2 relapsed in September 2014. Patient 2 began cerdulatinib 45 mg PO QD in October 2014, and the dose reduced to 30 mg due to fatigue.

The following was observed: Steady state C_(min)-C_(max) was 0.25-0.63 μM. % Inhibition BCR signaling; 90% for pSYK Y525/525, 0% for pERK Y204; % Inhibition IL2, IL4, IL6 signaling was 60-100%; % Inhibition GM-CSF was 0%; partial response to cerdulatinib (56%) after 2 cycles and 76% nodal reduction after one year on therapy.

Patient 2 remains on the drug.

CASE STUDY 3 (Patient 3): The patient was a 79 year old Caucasian male with Follicular Lymphoma. The patient's tumor bears a S86A mutation in STAT.

The patient's prior therapies: R-CVP (Rituximab; Cyclophosphamide; Vincristine; Prednisolone) (2006-2007), R-maintenance (2006-2008), BR (Bendamustine; Rituximab) (May 2013-September 2013), Ibrutinib (October 2013-April 2014), R-CHOP (December 2013-April 2014). Patient 3 relapsed in May 2014. Patient 3 was given cerdulatinib 15 mg by mouth twice daily (“PO BID”) June 2014. Stable disease was observed in Patient 3 for 6 months on cerdulatinib (20% nodal reduction).

These case studies show that cerdulatinib has been well-tolerated to date and has promising activity in heavily pre-treated patients having follicular lymphoma. Responses have been seen in other Non-Hodgkin's Lymphomas (NHL).

Example 6: Synergy Observed with Cerdulatinib and ABT-199 (Venetoclax) Combination

Synergistic anti-tumor activity in DLBCL cell lines was determined using the Cell Titer Glo assay. Briefly, 5,000 cells were plated in 96 well plates in complete tissue culture media. Cedulatinib and venetoclax were applied to the cells at 6 different concentration ranges (10, 3, 1, 0.3, 0.1, 0.03 μM) either as single agents, or following combination of cerdulatinib with venetoclax at 1:1, 1:2, 1:9, 2:1, and 9:1 ratios. Cells were incubated with or without drug for 72 hours in a 37° C. tissue culture incubator prior to evaluation by CellTiter Glo as per the manufacturer protocol (Promega). Synergy was evaluated by calculating combination index score, as described elsewhere (Jacquement et al, Molecular Cancer 2012) following IC₅₀ determination using Prism software. The compounds are commercially available or are made according to synthetic methods known to those skilled in the art.

DLBCL Cell Lines

As shown in Table 4 below (IC₅₀ shown in M), ABT-199 and cerdulatinib demonstrated a synergistic effect in DLBCL cell lines. DLBCL cell lines were purchased from ATCC. Strong synergy is considered to be in range of 0.1-0.3 (in parentheses); moderate is considered to be in a range of 0.3-0.6; slight synergy is considered to be in a range of 0.6-0.8; an additive effect is considered to be in a range of 0.8-1.2; and slight antagonism is considered to be in a range of >1.2.

TABLE 4 Cell Line Cerdulatinib ABT-199 1:1(C1) 1:2(Cl) 1:9(Cl) 2:1(C1) 9:1(C1) DHL4 1.49 1.63 0.57 0.61 1.07 0.66 0.75 (0.42) (0.39) (0.66) (0.43) (0.50) DHL10 0.3 3.7 0.65 0.9 2.07 0.71 0.46 (1.17) (1.16) (1.19) (1.64) (1.39) Lyl 4.3 0.75 0.74 0.64 0.63 1.1 2 (0.58) (0.62) (0.77) (0.66) (0.69) VAL 1.3 4.3 1.8 2.1 1.2 0.88 0.87 (0.90) (0.86) (0.34) (0.52) (0.62) DHL6 0.62 0.023 0.028 0.019 0.005 0.035 0.096 (0.63) (0.56) (0.20) (0.54) (0.56) Toledo 5.1 0.23 0.19 0.15 0.14 0.24 0.7 (0.43) (0.44) (0.55) (0.38) (0.43) U2932 3.73 0.49 0.18 0.19 0.26 0.19 0.32 (0.21) (0.26) (0.48) (0.16) (0.14)

In a SU-DHL4 cell line, cerdulatinib exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 1.49 μM while ABT-199 exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 1.63 μM. By contrast, a 1:1 ratio of cerdulatinib to ABT-199 exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 0.57 μM. Similarly, in a U2932 cell line, cerdulatinib exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 3.73 μM while ABT-199 exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 0.49 μM. By contrast, a 1:1 ratio of cerdulatinib to ABT-199 exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 0.18 μM.

CLL Primary Cells

CLL cells were treated with IL-4/CD40L for 6 hours and then incubated with either ABT-199 or cerdulatinib alone or in combination for a further 24 hours. ABT-199 significantly reduced CLL cell viability in the absence of IL-4/CD40L compared with cerdulatinib or the vehicle control. Treatment with IL-4\CD40L protected CLL cells against ABT-199 induced apoptosis; however, treatment with cerdulatinib reduced cell viability to similar levels regardless of treatment with or without IL-4\CD40L, shown in a representative sample (FIG. 7A) and summarized (n=9) (FIG. 7B). Moreover, CLL cells treated with a combination of the two drugs reduced CLL cell viability to a greater extent than with either drug alone.

Using the fractional 2-drug analysis method previously described for CLL, the synergistic interaction was evaluated between cerdulatinib and ABT-199. Values above the diagonal line represent additive interaction and those under the line are synergistic. In the presence of IL4/CD40L, a synergistic relationship was observed in the majority of samples (n=8/9) (FIG. 7C).

Cerdulatinib in combination with ABT-199 synergized to produce greater levels of CLL cell death in the presence of microenvironmental support from CD40L and IL-4.

The data provided herein further demonstrates the synergistic effect caused by ABT-199 and cerdulatinib. The data also indicates that cerdulatinib in combination with Bcl-2/Bcl-XL inhibitors may be useful.

Example 7: Synergy Observed with Cerdulatinib and Ibrutinib Combination

Synergistic anti-tumor activity in DLBCL cell lines was determined using the Cell Titer Glo assay. Briefly, 5,000 cells were plated in 96 well plates in complete tissue culture media. Cedulatinib and ibrutinib were applied to the cells at 6 different concentration ranges (10, 3, 1, 0.3, 0.1, 0.03 μM) either as single agents, or following combination of cerdulatinib with with ibrutinib at 1:1, 1:2, 1:9, 2:1, and 9:1 ratios. Cells were incubated with or without drug for 72 hours in a 37° C. tissue culture incubator prior to evaluation by CellTiter Glo as per the manufacturer protocol (Promega). Synergy was evaluated by calculating a combination index score, as described elsewhere (Jacquement et al, Molecular Cancer 2012) following IC₅₀ determination using Prism software. The compounds are commercially available or are made according to synthetic methods known to those skilled in the art.

As shown in Table 5 below, ibrutinib and cerdulatinib did show results of a synergistic effect. Strong synergy is considered to be in a range of 0.1-0.3 (in parentheses); moderate is considered to be in a range of 0.3-0.6; slight synergy is considered to be in a range of 0.6-0.8; an additive effect is considered to be in a range of 0.8-1.2; and slight antagonism is considered to be in a range of >1.2.

TABLE 5 Cell Line Cerdulatinib Ibrutinib 1:1(C1) 1:2(C1) 1:9(C1) 2:1(C1) 9:1(C1) DHL4 1.7 3.1 1.6 2.1 2.4 1.5 1.2 (0.73) (0.85) (0.84) (0.74) (0.67) DHL10 0.22 1.89 0.49 0.53 1.14 0.41 0.25 (1.24) (0.99) (1.18) (1.31) (1.04) OCI- 4.3 0.75 0.74 0.64 0.63 1.1 2 Lyl (0.58) (0.61) (0.77) (0.66) (2.45) OCI- 1.33 1.24 0.5 1.36 0.76 0.37 0.4 Ly18 (0.39) (1.07) (0.61) (0.28) (0.30) VAL 1.33 4.56 1.46 1.57 2.64 0.98 0.83 (0.71) (0.62) (0.72) (0.56) (0.58) DHL6 0.56 0.31 0.42 0.27 0.42 0.43 0.56 (1.05) (0.74) (1.29) (0.97) (1.08)

In a OCI-Ly18 cell line, cerdulatinib exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 1.33 μM while ibrutinib exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 1.24 μM. By contrast, a 1:1 ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 0.5 μM. Similarly, in a U2932 cell line, cerdulatinib exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 3.73 μM while ABT-199 exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 0.49 μM. By contrast, a 1:1 ratio of cerdulatinib to ABT-199 exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 0.18 μM.

Similarly, in a VAL cell line, cerdulatinib exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 1.33 μM while ibrutinib exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 4.56 μM. By contrast, a 2:1 ratio of cerdulatinib to ibrutinib exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 0.98 μM.

Example 8: Genetic or CD40L-Mediated Loss of IκBα is Associated with Resistance in DLBCL Cell Lines to the Dual SYK/JAK Inhibitor Cerdulatinib

Dysregulation of NFκB is observed in a variety of B cell malignancies, resulting in proliferative and survival signals that contribute to tumor progression. Under normal resting conditions, NFκB is negatively regulated principally via its physical association with IκB (inhibitor of NFκB) family members, inhibiting nuclear transport or access to DNA. In B cells, NFκB is activated via various external stimuli (e.g. ligation of the B cell antigen receptor, toll-like receptors, cytokine receptors, CD40), leading to IKK complex-dependent phosphorylation of IκB members, targeting the negative regulatory proteins for ubiquitination and degradation. These external signals are provided by the tumor itself in an autocrine manner, or by the tumor microenvironment. In some cases, however, the need for external stimuli is impacted or completely circumvented by mutations to critical regulators of NFκB, as has been described in the context of activating mutations to CD79A/B, MYD88, and CARD11, as well as inactivation of negative regulators such as A20 and IκB family members.

Cerdulatinib maintained anti-tumor activity in DLBCL cell lines bearing mutations to CARD11, MYD88, and A20. However, whereas subsets of DLBCL cell lines exhibit various degrees of reliance on SYK and JAK signaling for survival, in a screen of 15 DLBCL cell lines, 3 that were completely resistant to cerdulatinib. Next generation sequencing revealed bi-allelic inactivation of the IκBα gene in one of the cerdulatinib-resistant cell lines, RCK8. One allele carries a frameshift mutation in exon 1 resulting in the generation of a stop codon, and the second allele is a nonsense mutation in exon 3 at Gln154, also leading to a stop codon. The cell line lacked IκBα expression at the protein level. We therefore proceeded to explore the possibility that loss of IκBα was responsible for resistance to cerdulatinib.

Consistent with the loss of IκBα in RCK8, the cell line presented with enhanced basal NFκB activity. Re-expression of wild type IκBα led to rapid suppression of NFκB, and ultimately cell cycle arrest and cell death, indicating that the cell line was dependent upon loss of this gene for survival. Associated with suppression of NFκB was decreased cellular pAKT S473 and pERK Y202, but not of pSTAT3 Y705. We then attempted to knock IκBα down in cerdulatinib-sensitive cell lines using siRNA to determine if resistance to SYK/JAK inhibition could be generated. None of the DLBCL cell lines tested (n=4) could tolerate IκBα gene knock down, however, suggesting an additional mutation in RCK8 enables survival under conditions of homozygous loss of IκBα. Ligation of CD40 leads to a transient down-regulation of IκBα at the protein level. We therefore characterized this in multiple DLBCL cell lines and found that IκBα was maximally suppressed within 30-60 minutes post CD40 stimulation, returning to pre-treatment levels by 2-4 hour. The impact on NFκB activation was much longer, however, and of 7 cerdulatinib-sensitive cell lines tested, 5 were made resistant by co-culture with CD40L. Associated with this resistance was not only induction of NFκB, but also pERK Y204, pAKT S473, and pSTAT3 Y705. Interestingly, whereas the CD40L-induced NFκB activation was not inhibited by cerdulatinib, the other signaling events were, despite the generation of resistance.

In summary, it was demonstrated that loss of IκBα is associated with enhanced basel NFκB activity and survival in cerdulatinib-resistant DLBCL cell line, RCK8. Hi levels of basal pNFκB (p65) subunit are evident, and reintroduction of IKB-alpha expression leads to decreased pNFκB and cell death. CD40L-induced downregulation of IKB-alpha associated with increased pNFκB (p65) and resistance to credulatinib in several DLBCL cell lines.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “an agent” includes a plurality of agents.

As used herein, the term “comprising” or “comprises” is intended to mean that the compositions and methods include the recited elements, but not excluding others. “Consisting essentially of” when used to define compositions and methods, shall mean excluding other elements of any essential significance to the combination for the stated purpose. Thus, a composition consisting essentially of the elements as defined herein would not exclude other materials or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) claimed. “Consisting of” shall mean excluding more than trace elements of other ingredients and substantial method steps. Embodiments defined by each of these transition terms are within the scope of this disclosure.

The term “about” when used before a numerical designation, e.g., temperature, time, amount, and concentration, including range, indicates approximations which may vary by (+) or (−) 10%, 5% or 1%.

All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety, to the same extent as if each were incorporated by reference individually. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

It is to be understood that while the disclosure has been described in conjunction with the above embodiments, that the foregoing description and examples are intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the disclosure. Other aspects, advantages and modifications within the scope of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method for treating a hematologic cancer in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and an effective amount of rituximab, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein cerdulatinib and rituximab are present in a molar ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:5.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the hematologic cancer is non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL).
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the hematologic cancer is selected from Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL), Follicular Lymphoma (FL), transformed Follicular Lymphoma (tFL), Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL), Marginal Zone Lymphoma, Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT), and Waldenstrom Macroglobluinemia (WM).
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the hematologic cancer is FL.
 5. The method of claim 3, wherein the hematologic cancer is tFL.
 6. The method of claim 3, wherein the hematologic cancer is SLL.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein cerdulatinib and rituximab are administered concurrently or sequentially.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the patient has a drug resistant and/or relapsed form of the hematologic cancer.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the patient has a mutation linked to relapse and/or a resistance to another drug for treating a hematologic cancer.
 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the patient has a resistance to a chemotherapeutic agent.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the patient was previously administered a drug selected from an alkylating agent, an anti-CD20 antibody, a BCL-2 inhibitor, a BTK inhibitor, a P13Kδ inhibitor, a platinum-based drug, an antimetabolite, an anthracycline, a BCR pathway inhibitor, and another chemotherapeutic agent used for treating a hematologic cancer.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the patient was previously administered a drug selected from venetoclax, rituximab, ibrutinib, idelalisib, and fludarabine.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the patient expresses a Bcl-2 protein.
 14. The method of claim 1, wherein the patient expresses a Bim protein.
 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is about 25 mg to about 120 mg administered daily.
 16. The method of claim 1, wherein the patient has a CD79B mutation, has a PLCγ2 mutation, or does not have a IKB deletion, wherein the effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is about 25 mg to about 120 mg administered daily.
 17. The method of claim 1, wherein the effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is about 60 mg in two administrations of about 30 mg.
 18. The method of claim 1, wherein the effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is about 50 mg in two administrations of about 25 mg.
 19. The method of claim 1, wherein the effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is about 40 mg in two administrations of about 20 mg.
 20. The method of claim 1, wherein the effective amount of cerdulatinib, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is about 30 mg in two administrations of about 15 mg. 